Honolulu is one step closer to joining Hawaii’s three other counties. A proposed ban on plastic bags lives to fight another day.

Following the recommendation of Chair Stanley Chang, the Public Works and Sustainability Committee advanced the bill moments ago without objections.

But Chang said he moved it forward for discussion purposes, and is open to amendments. In particular, look for a change to the language that would instead implement a fee. That idea would potentially satisfy both environmentalists and the food industry.

Some said they wanted to keep an eye on what happens with a potential fee across the street at the Hawaii Legislature, but Council Chair Ernie Martin, the bill’s introducer, said he’s not inclined to wait for the state to act.

The bill goes back to the full Council for second reading and public hearing. After that, it would come back to committee.